Queen Elizabeth II: A Life of Duty, Love, and Corgis

On April 21st, Queen Elizabeth II celebrated her 96th birthday in a close-knit gathering at the Sandringham Estate, a favorite retreat of her father, King George VI. The official celebrations are scheduled for June. Let’s delve into some fascinating aspects of her life, including her beloved corgis.

A Record-Breaking Reign

Queen Elizabeth II holds the record for the longest reign among European monarchs and is the oldest reigning monarch in the world. She has been on the throne for an impressive 70 years.

An Unexpected Ascent to the Throne

Elizabeth ascended to the British throne at the age of 25. Initially, she was not considered a likely candidate for the monarchy, being third in line after her father and uncle. However, her uncle abdicated, and her father, King George VI, passed away from lung cancer at the age of 55, making Elizabeth the queen.

The Queen’s Duties and Relationships with Prime Ministers

Initially, Prime Minister Winston Churchill doubted Elizabeth’s capabilities due to her young age and inexperience. However, he soon changed his opinion, impressed by her intelligence and sense of duty. The Queen’s primary responsibilities include diplomatic visits, receiving ambassadors, meeting high-ranking officials, delivering annual speeches to Parliament, awarding honors, and knighting individuals.

Throughout her reign, the Queen has influenced many decisions. Every Tuesday at six in the evening, she meets with the British Prime Minister. The contents of these meetings remain confidential. Margaret Thatcher, in her memoirs, described these meetings as substantial and productive, highlighting the Queen’s vast experience and problem-solving skills.

The Queen’s Relationship with Her Husband, Prince Philip

Queen Elizabeth II’s personal life can be considered happy. She fell in love with Philip Mountbatten, her distant cousin, at the age of 13. They married when she was 21 and shared 73 and a half years together. Elizabeth often referred to Philip as her “strength and stay,” consulting him on speeches and decisions.

However, Philip initially struggled with Elizabeth’s ascension to the throne, as it meant abandoning his naval career. Despite this, he supported his wife, and their relationship appeared warm and loving. The Queen was often seen laughing heartily in informal photos with Philip.

Prince Philip was known for his humor. He once dressed as a guard to play a prank on the Queen. He was also known for his witty remarks to various dignitaries.

The Queen’s Passions: Horses, Stamps, and Corgis

The Queen has always loved corgis. She received her first corgi at the age of seven and has owned more than 30 corgis since. However, in 2015, she decided to stop breeding corgis to ensure they would not outlive her. Her last corgi, a descendant of her first corgi Susan, passed away in 2018.

Despite their cute appearance, the Queen’s corgis were known to be quite feisty, even nipping the Queen herself on occasion.

Another passion of the Queen is horses. She received her first pony, Peggy, at the age of four and became an excellent rider. Her love for horses has also been a successful venture, with her racehorses earning her around £9 million in prize money.

The Queen also collects stamps, a tradition started by her great-grandfather, Edward VII. Her collection is estimated to be worth around £100 million.

The Queen is known for her sense of humor. She enjoys playing pranks on tourists and has been known to make witty remarks to dignitaries. She is also actively involved in charity work and public service.

For more information about the British Royal Family, you can visit the official website.